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46 Labs, a global business communications management provider, has its newest facility. The company opened the doors to its new 25,000-square-foot office in Dallas’ history West End at the site of the former Sam’s Club Innovation Center. The building previously served as a former bread factory and will seat 50 office employees. It features three conference rooms, four private offices, and multiple private pods for collaboration and working spaces.

“We believe in modernizing legacy systems, whether it’s global communications infrastructure or the places that shaped us,” 46 Labs CEO Trevor Francis said. “The West End was once the heartbeat of Dallas, and we see no reason why it can’t be again. We’re putting our stake in the ground, investing in the future of this district, and creating a space where businesses, innovators, and our team can connect and grow together.” Francis said.

The company initially launched as a remote-based operation, while it most recently called 1701 Market Street in the West End home. The company plans to focus all of its resources in Dallas to grow the region’s reputation as a telecom hub. 46 Labs will also aim to increase its workforce to 100 employees over the next three years.

“Our business is about putting people in touch with each other,” Francis said. “This office is a physical manifestation of that goal. As we scale, we’re choosing to do it in a place that shaped our leadership, our team, and our values.”

Hydrogen Tech Company DirectH2 Closes Seed Funding Round

DirectH2 has closed its seed funding round from HL Energy Ventures. The hydrogen technology company will now look to accelerate the development and commercialization of its hydrogen solutions in concert with Rice University to address critical challenges in the clean energy sector.

“HL Energy Ventures is an excellent partner in bringing our breakthrough hydrogen technology to market,” DirectH2 Co-founder and Interim CEO Michael Irwin said. “This investment validates our vision and will enable us to further develop efficient PV-based hydrogen solutions that drive the transition to sustainable energy. Rice will continue to be a critical collaborator in the technology development and commercialization journey.”

As part of the collaboration between DirectH2 and Rice University, the former has exclusively licensed the intellectual property from the latter. Spun out of Hunt Energy’s technology venture, HL Energy Ventures views DirectH2 as a crucial piece of pushing forward the next wave of hydrogen solutions.

“DirectH2’s innovation to integrate renewable energy with hydrogen production opens up how green hydrogen can be produced, and we are excited to support their journey,” HL Energy Ventures CEO Victor Liu said.

Winsome Prime Set To Occupy Former Network Bar Space in Trinity Groves

The former home of the Network Bar is set to have a new occupant this spring. Located at 331 Singleton Boulevard, Winsome Prime is bringing its elevated approach of New American Fare to Dallas with Southern influence and a focus on prime steaks. The concept comes on the heels of its predecessor’s opening, The Warwick Restaurant Houston, in 2022.

“We were drawn to the Dallas metroplex due to its sophistication and attention to detail in its culinary and craft cocktail scene,” Co-owner Rob Wright said. “Future guests can expect the superb culinary experience we are known for in Houston, but with an innovative approach to the dishes that have evolved with our brand.”

The menu will lean into its signature steaks and Cajun-focused Southern dishes from the mind of culinary director Jabril Riddick. The Houston location, which will also be renamed Winsome Prime, has hosted cultural and sports figures alike, such as Shaquille O’Neal, Terrell Owens, and Travis Scott.